FPS To Alter CHANCE Program
Parents and guardians with children that utilize the CHANCE (Choosing Healthy Habits and Action Necessary to Create Empowering Behavior) program at Fairbury Public Schools will be seeing changes next school year.
CHANCE is a self-contained behavior classroom of the FPS district designed to educate students from the Fairbury Public School District and surrounding area who are in need of additional academic and behavioral support. The CHANCE program is designed for students in need of an alternative school setting who may qualify for Special Education services.
Recently, FPS Special Education Director Anne Chappell send an email to parents and guardians, “For many years, some students with significant behavioral needs have been served through the CHANCE program. As we have reviewed our practices and current expectations for student support, we have determined that we can better meet student needs by strengthening the supports available within our schools.”
“Beginning next school year, the district will transition away from the CHANCE program in its current form. Moving forward, behavioral supports will be provided through individualized services that focus on teaching behavioral skills, using data to guide decisions, and helping students build the skills needed to be successful in school,” Chappell wrote. “Our goal is to support students within their school communities whenever appropriate. Being connected to peers and having consistent exposure to grade-level instruction are important parts of both academic and social growth.”
It has always been the goal of CHANCE to integrate students in the program into the general classroom. The purpose of this new approach is to ensure students get as much time in in the general classroom environment as possible.
Chappel assured parents and guardians, “At the same time, specialized placements will remain available for students whose needs require a more intensive level of support.”
FJN reached out to Chappel for more information. As of press time, no response was received.
